Hydrogen production: Light-driven processes - Green algae

Abstract

An ability of certain microalgae to produce molecular hydrogen was discovered a long time ago. From this discovery up to now many achievements in understanding of the process have been made. We know the general scheme of the photosynthetic electron transport chain and virtually understand properties of all enzymes and complexes involved in the process. However, advances towards practical applications of the process are minimal. In this chapter the state of the art with an emphasis on critical steps restricting the application of hydrogen production by microalgae for light-energy bioconversion is presented.